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Radiofrequency Ablation
Learn how radiofrequency ablation at Compass Pain and Wellness may help manage chronic pain.
UNDERSTANDING THE SCIENCE
What is Radiofrequency Ablation?
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) — sometimes called radiofrequency neurotomy — is a minimally invasive pain management procedure that uses controlled heat energy to interrupt pain signals sent from specific nerves to the brain¹.
RFA reduces or eliminates chronic neck, mid-back, or lower-back pain caused by arthritic or irritated facet joints. It provides longer-lasting relief compared to steroid injections or medications alone, and improves range of motion, posture, and activity tolerance.
At Compass Pain and Wellness, our interventional pain specialists perform RFA procedures safely and comfortably in our in-office procedural suite, using fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance and a compassionate, personalized approach to care.
advantages
What Symptoms and Conditions Does It Treat?
RFA is most commonly used to treat chronic spinal joint pain that has not improved with conservative care. It targets the medial branch nerves, which carry pain signals from the small facet joints in your spine².
- Aching or burning pain in the neck, upper back, or lower back
- Pain that worsens with prolonged sitting, standing, or twisting
- Stiffness and limited range of motion
- Discomfort that improves temporarily with diagnostic nerve blocks
- Facet joint arthritis (cervical, thoracic, or lumbar)
- Sacroiliac joint dysfunction
- Chronic axial spine pain (pain that does not radiate into the arms or legs)
- Select cases of degenerative disc disease or post-laminectomy pain
RFA is typically recommended after confirming pain relief from diagnostic medial branch blocks, which verify that the targeted nerves are the true source of your pain.
Radiofrequency ablation relieves pain by disabling the small sensory nerves that transmit pain signals from your spine’s facet joints³. Step-by-Step Mechanism:
- A specialized needle is guided to the targeted nerve under fluoroscopic imaging.
- A mild electrical current tests for accuracy and ensures the correct nerve is located.
- Once confirmed, the tip of the needle heats up using radiofrequency energy, typically around 80°C (176°F).
- This controlled heat creates a small lesion that interrupts the nerve’s ability to send pain signals.
Because the nerve endings regenerate slowly, pain relief may last for 6–18 months, and sometimes longer. If pain returns, the procedure can often be safely repeated.
Radiofrequency ablation may be appropriate for patients who:
- Have chronic neck or back pain lasting three months or longer
- Experienced significant relief from diagnostic medial branch blocks
- Have not achieved lasting relief from conservative treatments (physical therapy, medications, or lifestyle modifications)
- Prefer to avoid or delay surgery
Not Recommended If:
- You have an active infection near the procedure site
- You have uncontrolled bleeding disorders
- You are pregnant or unable to remain still for the brief procedure
At Compass Pain and Wellness, every candidate undergoes a comprehensive evaluation to confirm the pain source, review imaging, and determine whether RFA aligns with your goals and overall treatment plan.
the process
What to Expect on Procedure Day
At Compass Pain and Wellness, our goal is to make your RFA experience as smooth and comfortable as possible. The procedure typically takes 30–45 minutes, including preparation and recovery. Most patients remain awake but relaxed during the treatment.
Preparation
You’ll check in and our care team will review your history and recent imaging. The treatment area is cleaned and numbed with local anesthetic.
Imaging Guidance
Under fluoroscopy (real-time X-ray), the physician guides a thin probe to the targeted nerve.
Testing
A small electrical current confirms correct placement — you may feel a brief tingling sensation.
Treatment
The radiofrequency current heats the nerve for 60–90 seconds, creating the lesion.
Observation
You’ll rest for a short period before heading home the same day with simple after-care instructions.
Typical Recovery Experience
- Mild soreness or muscle spasms for a few days at the treatment site.
- Temporary numbness or tingling as the nerves settle.
- Most patients resume normal activities within 24–72 hours
Next Few Weeks
Pain relief often develops gradually over 1–3 weeks as the ablated nerves stop transmitting pain signals. Full results may take up to 4 weeks to be realized².
post procedure
Integrated Post-Procedure Care
Our care team will provide personalized post-procedure instructions for your recovery.
A key advantage of receiving care at Compass is that your physician can coordinate directly with our in-house physical therapist to create a targeted strengthening and mobility program. We may also recommend red-light therapy, PEMF, or other adjunctive modalities to promote tissue healing, reduce inflammation, and enhance long-term outcomes.
Together, these services help maximize your recovery, restore mobility, and reduce the likelihood of recurrence.
PROVEN OUTCOMES
What Kind of Results Can You Expect
Patients often notice gradual improvement in pain, mobility, and overall well-being after a series of acupuncture sessions.
- Immediate effects may include reduced muscle tension, decreased headache frequency, relief from localized pain, relaxation and a general sense of ease.
- Cumulative benefits over multiple sessions may include enhanced circulation, improved nerve function, and better tolerance of physical therapy exercises.
- Results vary depending on the condition, severity, and individual response, but acupuncture is widely recognized as a safe, effective complement to conventional pain management and rehabilitation therapies[^7].
the Compass Difference
Your Complete Care Team
At Compass, our goal is to integrate acupuncture into a holistic plan, allowing patients to achieve lasting relief, improved function, and greater quality of life.